Case Study

Fernando Sucre

Area: Commercial Leaders
University Attended: Bristol University
Degree: MSc in Economics, Finance and Management
Year joined HBOS: 2007

"With my Latin-American roots, I've always been very outgoing and sociable - a bit loud maybe! So it's really important to me that I work in an environment where you're allowed to have fun.

"The Marketing Analytics team that I'm currently working in is perfect on that front. Despite the scientific nature of the job, it's all very easy-going and we socialise outside the office too - playing football and tennis regularly. Working with people that you can relate with makes all the difference.

"At the moment, I'm responsible for supporting our e-commerce team with data analysis, insights and actionable recommendations, which I'm really enjoying. Depending on the stage of a piece of work, I might be using software to obtain data and manipulate it, using common sense to analyse it or using PowerPoint to prepare presentations to senior management. I tend to work on two or three pieces at any one time, so it keeps things varied. I'm also working on a strategic project that involves not only analysis but a great deal of interpersonal skills as well.

"I am now considering different options for my next six-month rotation. My line manager and mentor are helping me identify the skills I need and want to develop with the aim of selecting the best place for me to achieve that. Although I still do not know which part of the business I would like to end up in, I see myself as more of a generalist than a specialist. As such, I am focusing on developing my commercial awareness and those transferable skills that will allow me to lead people effectively and manage an area of the business."